Before & After: East Nashville Transformation

We turned a forgotten 1920s bungalow in East Nashville into a modern family home with soul. At Midtown Ventures, we thrive on breathing new life into historic properties across Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and beyond. This project in one of Nashville’s most vibrant neighborhoods showcases how thoughtful home renovation can blend vintage charm with contemporary comfort. Ready to dive into the transformation? Here’s how we did it.

Why East Nashville?

East Nashville is a hub of creativity and history, known for its eclectic mix of historic bungalows, colorful murals, and thriving local businesses. Neighborhoods like Five Points and Lockeland Springs attract homeowners and investors eager to preserve the area’s soul while modernizing for today’s lifestyles. This 1920s bungalow, tucked away on a quiet street, was a diamond in the rough—full of potential but in need of serious TLC.

With its proximity to Nashville’s bustling downtown and nearby cities like Franklin, TN and Murfreesboro, East Nashville is a hot spot for real estate Nashville transformations. Our goal? To honor the home’s history while making it a functional, beautiful space for a modern family.

The Before: A Forgotten Gem

When we first stepped into this East Nashville bungalow, it was clear it hadn’t been touched in decades. The 1,200-square-foot home had original hardwood floors buried under layers of grime, outdated electrical wiring, and a choppy layout that felt cramped. The kitchen was a time capsule—think faded linoleum and cabinets straight out of the 1970s. The exterior? Peeling paint and an overgrown yard that hid the home’s Craftsman charm.

Despite the challenges, we saw potential in its high ceilings, large windows, and solid bones. This was a classic Nashville home renovation opportunity—one that could shine with the right vision.

The Transformation Process

Here’s how Midtown Ventures transformed this bungalow into a modern family home:

• Open-Concept Layout: We removed walls to create a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, and kitchen. This opened up the space, making it feel airy and inviting—perfect for family gatherings or entertaining in East Nashville style.
• Kitchen Overhaul: The dated kitchen was gutted and replaced with custom white cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a farmhouse sink. A central island added functionality, ideal for busy mornings or casual dinners. Cost: ~$45,000.
• Historic Preservation: We restored the original hardwood floors and exposed brick fireplace, blending them with modern touches like matte black fixtures. This nod to the 1920s kept the home’s soul intact.
• Systems Upgrades: New electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC ensured the home met 2025 standards, critical for older properties in Germantown or Franklin, TN. Cost: ~$20,000.
• Exterior Refresh: A fresh coat of deep blue paint, new windows, and a landscaped front yard boosted curb appeal, making the bungalow a neighborhood standout.

The total renovation cost was approximately $120,000, a worthwhile investment given East Nashville’s booming real estate market.

Challenges We Overcame

Renovating a historic home in East Nashville isn’t without hurdles. Here’s what we faced:

1. Historic Regulations: The home was in a historic overlay, requiring special permits for exterior changes. We worked closely with Nashville’s Historic Zoning Commission, adding ~$1,500 in fees.
2. Unexpected Repairs: Asbestos in the attic and outdated plumbing demanded extra care, increasing costs by 15%. This is common in older homes across Murfreesboro or Hendersonville.
3. Supply Delays: 2025’s construction boom meant longer lead times for custom materials, but our local Brentwood suppliers helped us stay on track.

Our experience navigating these challenges ensured the project stayed on budget and was completed in four months.

The After: A Modern Home with Soul

The transformed bungalow now boasts 1,400 square feet (thanks to a small addition), three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The open-concept main area is bathed in natural light, with refinished hardwoods and neutral tones creating a warm, timeless feel. The kitchen’s sleek design and smart home features—like voice-activated lighting—make it both practical and luxurious. Outside, a new deck offers space for entertaining, a must in East Nashville’s social scene.

The family who moved in couldn’t be happier, describing it as “a home that feels like us, but with all the modern perks.” The property’s value jumped by 30%, proving the ROI of thoughtful Nashville home improvement.

Top Features That Made This Transformation Shine

Here’s what set this Nashville home renovation apart:

• Blended Aesthetics: Mixing Craftsman details with modern finishes, perfect for 12 South or Germantown vibes.
• Energy Efficiency: New windows and insulation lowered utility bills, a trend gaining traction in Franklin, TN.
• Outdoor Living: The deck added usable space, ideal for Middle Tennessee’s mild climate.
• Local Craftsmanship: We partnered with Nashville artisans for custom millwork, supporting small businesses.

These elements not only elevated the home but also aligned with 2025’s hottest home improvement trends.

Why Choose Midtown Ventures for Your East Nashville Renovation?

At Midtown Ventures, we specialize in turning dated properties into dream homes across Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, and Hendersonville. This East Nashville transformation is just one example of our commitment to quality and community. We understand the nuances of historic renovations and partner with local experts to deliver results that last.

Ready to transform your property? Contact us to start your Nashville home improvement journey today!